Hmmm … Matthew has just started school (Early Learning Centre) about a week ago and he seems to be enjoying himself quite a bit. At least he doesn’t cry himself to sleep like when he was in childcare. Or kicks up a big fuss in the morning. He also didn’t cry when we sent him to school on the first day which was quite a big surprise for us and for his teachers. This was because he made quite a big fuss when he went in a couple of times for orientation in the previous term.
So, that’s a little update from our family.
Well, besides parents sending their children to formal school like we have done for Matthew, there seems to be an increasing number of parents in South Australia who have decided to [homeschool](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Home_school) their children. An [AdelaideNow news report](http://www.news.com.au/adelaidenow/story/0,22606,25825345-2682,00.html) states that “more than 830 children stayed at home” for their studies. As for us, we haven’t ever thought of homeschooling Matthew as we prefer him to go to school and mix with other children. But I’m aware that homeschooled kids have combined activities (social and sports) as well through homeschooling support groups. So what do you think about homeschooling?
***Do note that homeschooling might not be legal in where you live. So, do check with your respective education departments for more information.***
In health news, children who take plenty of dairy foods are expected to live longer, a study highlighted in [BBC News | Health](http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/8170002.stm). Although the report didn’t say by how much longer, but it does say that taking milk and cheese (with its high dairy and calcium) helps to protect against stroke and other causes of death. So, ensure your children take lots of dairy products. Matthew has at least a bottle of milk in the morning and 2-3 slices of cheese. Hopefully, that is enough dairy and calcium intake for him so that he can live a longer life. 
And now for a good cause! **Sara Wilson** from [The Fresh Air Fund](http://freshair-press.com/) has been sending me emails with regards to putting up information about the Fresh Air Fund, which I haven’t done. So, if you are in the United States and Canada, do click on the link and see if you are able to assist by hosting “The Fresh Air Fund” children in August or by donating. Help to change some children’s life.
